Thomas Hardy,
Desperate Remedies — 9. HALF-PAST EIGHT TO ELEVEN P.M.
(1871)
“ Half-past eight o'clock--the time at which Owen's train was due--had come, and passed, but no train appeared.'When will the eight-thirty train be in?' he asked of a man who was sweeping the mud from the steps.'She is not expected yet this hour.''How is that?''Christmas-time, you see, 'tis always so. People are running about to see their friends. ”
